Bali Driver Guide, Tours and Activities Organizer

Bali Travel Tips

Customs and Traditions
Shorts and mini-skirts are not allowed in and around temples. It is a custom to take off the shoes in temples, on festival grounds and in private houses. It is strongly recommend following these custom to show your respect for the religious traditions.

You should never touch someone’s head (including children) or point your finger at someone as this is considered impolite.

For the same reason you should avoid standing with your head above someone you are talking to. In doubt you should rather squat or sit. Shaking hands is not customary, except on farewells or congratulations. Intimate touches or embraces are absolutely inappropriate.

Nude or topless swimming and sunbathing is forbidden. If you see Balinese taking a bath in the rivers along the streets you should discreetly overlook them and resist the appeal to take pictures.

When handing over or taking something from someone only the right hand is to be used. The left hand is considered unclean.Yet another advice: The Balinese love to bargain. Especially in the markets, it is usual to haggle over the prices. Please inform yourself in advance about the realistic prices.

Dangerous Sports
Make sure you either have personal insurance or travel insurance that will cover any accidents.

Petty Crime
There have been a few cases of handbags being snatched after tourists have chased money at Banks or Money Changers!
Put your money away in your ‘bum-bag’ or hold onto your handbag tightly. When changing large amounts of money please check each note carefully as there are a number of (noticeably) fake notes in circulation. When trying on garments do not take your jewelry off and leave it lying around – give it to a friend or leave it in the hotel safe.

Drinking Water
Do not drink water from any taps. Bottled mineral water is highly recommended for your health.

Swimming in the Sea
Currents / undertows can be strong, always swim between the red and yellow flags, do not swim too far out! Do not leave your belongings unattended on the beach.

Street Vendors
Can be overbearing at times, however they are trying to make a living …. so, please be understanding if FIRM. If you would like to lodge a complaint, please do so by taking down their vendor-card details and reporting to the nearest Police Post or Police Station. If you don’t want to be pestered, it is best not to look at the ‘wares’, avoid all eye contact. Remember in Indonesia, if you ask the price, you must want to buy!

Tips for Taking Taxis in Bali
* It is always best to order a taxi by phone-especially at night.
* If you must hail a taxi on the street, be sure that the name of the taxi company is clearly marked on it.
* Insist on using the meter. Don’t fall for a driver who bargains or claims that his meter is broken.
* In the taxi, note the taxi’s number and the driver’s ID. This may come handy if you want to register a complaint or trace belongings left behind.
* In places such as Ubud, Sanur and Kuta there are many people who offer you transportation services. If you must take any of their services, make sure you establish the price up front.
* There are licensed taxis at Bali’s airport. Avoid taking services from ‘’brokers’’ who offer you transportation.

Health Regulations
Officially there are no vaccinations required. Malaria prophylaxis is recommended as well as having a tetanus and polio booster if necessary.

Attending Ceremonies
Remember these are serious occasion and should be treated as such. Religious guidelines : Always wear a sarong and sash. Do not walk in front of people praying. Do not use flash cameras or push your camera into the priest’s face! Never sit higher than the priests or the offerings. At cremation, do not get in the way of the attendees however important that photographic opportunity is! Women are not allowed to enter temples during menstruation.

PS:
When attending Special Ceremonies or Anniversary Celebrations as a guest or onlooker, small donations are gratefully received. Your donations will help in paying for the offerings and upkeep of the temple.

Clothing
During the day it is recommended light cotton clothes. For mountain excursions you should take along some warmer clothes